All 18 Parkway elementary schools recognized as 2020 Project Lead The Way Distinguished Schools

5/19/2020 -- All 18 Parkway elementary schools have been recognized as 2020 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished Schools for providing broad access to transformative Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM) learning opportunities for students. Only 404 elementary schools across the U.S. received this honor.

The PLTW Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement and achievement in their programs. To be eligible for the designation, each school had to offer at least two PLTW Launch modules at each grade level and have more than 75% of the student body participating during the 2018-19 school year.

Parkway elementary schools have been participating in PLTW programs for the past two school years. All Parkway elementary schools teach STEM education to 100% of students.

Studies show that students decide as early as elementary school whether they like, and think they are good at math and science. Whether designing a car safety belt or building digital animations based on their own short stories, PLTW Launch students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills, and develop a passion for and confidence in STEM.

“It is a great honor to recognize Parkway elementary schools for their commitment to providing students with an excellent educational experience,” said Dr. Vince Bertram, president and CEO of PLTW. They should be very proud of their work to ensure students have the knowledge and skills to be career-ready and successful on any career path they choose.”

Parkway elementary schools are a part of a community of PreK-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporate and philanthropic partners across the country united around a passion for providing students with inspiring, engaging, and empowering learning opportunities.